1
|
de Barcellos MD, Perin MG, Lähteenmäki L, Grunert KG. Cooking readiness in stressful times: Navigating food choices for a healthier future. Appetite 2024; 203:107652. [PMID: 39241832 DOI: 10.1016/j.appet.2024.107652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2024] [Revised: 07/06/2024] [Accepted: 08/29/2024] [Indexed: 09/09/2024]
Abstract
Food choice is a complex function of preferences and combines a myriad of food-related factors, such as biological, economic, physical, social, and psychological determinants. People's food choices directly affect their health and can have both positive and negative outcomes. For instance, the pandemic may have presented an opportunity to cook more at home, eventually resulting in dietary benefits, health improvements, and reduced stress. Conversely, adverse behavioral, psychological, and physical outcomes, such as overeating, have also been associated with stressful situations. Therefore, the aim of this study is twofold: first, to propose "cooking readiness" as a higher-order construct, in which 'food literacy' and 'cooking skills' correspond to the capability, 'cooking attitudes' reflect the motivation, and the variable 'COVID-19 restrictions' represent the opportunity for consumers to cook and consume healthier food at home. Furthermore, as the pandemic scenario was imposed and caused changes in mental health and emotional mood, the second objective is to explore the relationship between cooking readiness and stress levels in consumers' choices for nutritionally recommended (or non-recommended) food. Cross-country data (Brazil, Denmark) from 1074 consumers was analyzed using structural equation modeling. This study confirms cooking readiness as a higher-order construct, integrating food literacy, cooking skills, and cooking attitudes with pandemic-induced opportunities. Cooking readiness is crucial in promoting healthier eating habits, particularly in Brazil. The stronger tradition of healthier eating in Denmark may mitigate the impact of cooking readiness on reducing non-recommended food consumption. The varying effects of stress on food choices between the two countries underscore the need for tailored public health strategies that consider cultural differences and existing dietary habits. Promoting cooking skills and food literacy, particularly in times of crisis, can be instrumental in supporting healthier food choices and improving public health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marcia Dutra de Barcellos
- Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Rua Washington Luiz 855, Porto Alegre, RS, 90010-460, Brazil; Ghent University, Department of Agricultural Economics, Coupure Links 653, 9000, Gent, Belgium.
| | - Marcelo Gatermann Perin
- FGV EAESP, Department of Marketing, Av. 9 de Julho, 2029, Bela Vista, São Paulo, SP, 01313-902, Brazil.
| | - Liisa Lähteenmäki
- Aarhus University, Dept of Management, MAPP Centre, Fuglesangs Allé 4, 8210, Aarhus, Denmark.
| | - Klaus G Grunert
- Aarhus University, Dept of Management, MAPP Centre, Fuglesangs Allé 4, 8210, Aarhus, Denmark.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Kostopoulou E. The Interplay Between COVID-19 and Pediatric Endocrine Disorders. What have we Learned After More than Three Years of the Pandemic? Horm Metab Res 2024; 56:181-192. [PMID: 37673081 DOI: 10.1055/a-2152-4590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/08/2023]
Abstract
As an increased body of COVID-19 related research is now available, it becomes apparent that the effects of COVID-19 extend beyond that of the respiratory system. Among others, the endocrine system is particularly vulnerable to perturbation from the COVID-19 infection. The present scoping review summarizes the bidirectional relationship between COVID-19 and endocrine system in children and adolescents, by describing both the possible susceptibility of children and adolescents without endocrinopathies to endocrine disorders following COVID-19 infection, but also the potential susceptibility to COVID-19 infection and severe infection, or the aggravation of endocrine dysfunction in patients with pre-existing endocrine diseases. Data suggest increased obesity and diabetes rates, as well as increased severity and frequency of diabetic ketoacidosis following COVID-19 infection. Conversely, patients with diabetes and obesity may experience a more severe course of COVID-19 infection. However, in the majority of cases, children and adolescents with well-managed and regulated endocrine disorders do not appear to be at increased risk of infection or severe infection from COVID-19. Thus, adhering to the appropriate "sick day management rules", maintaining adequate supply of medications and supplies, keeping close contact with the therapeutic team and seeking medical help without delay when needed, are the main recommendations for a safe outcome. Additional lessons learnt during the pandemic include the risk for mental health diseases caused by children's disrupted routine due to COVID-19 related protective measures and the importance of adopting alternative communication options, such as telehealth visits, in order to ensure uninterrupted endocrine care.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eirini Kostopoulou
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes, Department of Pediatrics, University of Patras School of Medicine, Patras, Greece
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Dou N, Deitch R, Kowalski AJ, Kuhn A, Lane H, Parker EA, Wang Y, Zafari Z, Black MM, Hager ER. Studying the impact of COVID-19 mitigation policies on childhood obesity, health behaviors, and disparities in an observational cohort: Protocol for the COVID-19 Family Study. Contemp Clin Trials 2024; 136:107408. [PMID: 38072192 PMCID: PMC10922699 DOI: 10.1016/j.cct.2023.107408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2023] [Revised: 11/13/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND COVID-19 pandemic control policies, including school closures, suspended extra-curricular activities, and social distancing, were introduced to prevent viral transmission, and disrupted children's daily routines, health behaviors, and wellness. This observational cohort study among 697 families with children or adolescents, based on the Family Stress Model, aims to: 1) evaluate pre- to during-pandemic changes in child health behaviors (diet, physical activity, sleep) and weight gain, 2) identify mechanisms explaining the changes, and 3) determine projected healthcare costs on weight gain and obesity. Each aim includes an examination by racial and ethnic, socioeconomic, and geographic disparities. METHODS The study employs a mixed methods design, recruiting children and their caregivers from two obesity prevention trials halted in 2020. Enrolled participants complete annual surveys to assess child health behaviors, family resources, routines, and demographics, and home environment in 2020-2022. Height and weight are measured annually in 2021-2022. Annual semi-structured interviews are conducted within a subsample to understand mechanisms of observed changes. Multilevel mixed models and mediation analyses are used to examine changes in child health behaviors and weight gain and mechanisms underlying the changes. Qualitative data are analyzed within and across time points and integrated with quantitative findings to further explain mechanisms. Markov models are used to determine healthcare costs for unhealthy child behaviors and weight gain. CONCLUSION Findings from this study will aid in understanding pandemic-related changes in child health behaviors and weight status and will provide insights for the implementation of future programs and policies to improve child and family wellness.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nan Dou
- Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, 615 N Wolfe St, MD 21205, USA.
| | - Rachel Deitch
- Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, 615 N Wolfe St, MD 21205, USA.
| | - Alysse J Kowalski
- Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, 615 N Wolfe St, MD 21205, USA.
| | - Ann Kuhn
- Department of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, University at Buffalo, The State University of New York, 401 Kimball Tower, Buffalo, NY 14214, USA.
| | - Hannah Lane
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, 215 Morris Street, Durham, NC 27701, USA.
| | - Elizabeth A Parker
- University of Maryland School of Medicine, Department of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Science, 100 Penn Street, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA.
| | - Yan Wang
- Department of Prevention and Community Health, Milken Institute School of Public Health, The George Washington University, 950 New Hampshire Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20052, USA.
| | - Zafar Zafari
- Department of Practice, Sciences, and Health Outcomes Research, University of Maryland School of Pharmacy, 20 North Pine Street, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA.
| | - Maureen M Black
- University of Maryland School of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, 737 West Lombard Street, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA; RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA.
| | - Erin R Hager
- Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, 615 N Wolfe St, MD 21205, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Vieira M, Carvalho GS. The "Planning Health in School" Programme (PHS-pro) to Improve Healthy Eating and Physical Activity: Design, Methodology, and Process Evaluation. Nutrients 2023; 15:4543. [PMID: 37960196 PMCID: PMC10649764 DOI: 10.3390/nu15214543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2023] [Revised: 10/21/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Few interventions have successfully promoted healthy eating and active living among children with effective changes in anthropometric health outcomes. Well-designed interventions involving multiple strategies to convert the knowledge already available into action are needed for preventing childhood obesity. In this study, an educational programme called "Planning Health in School" (PHS-pro) was designed, implemented and evaluated to contribute to the prevention of obesity in childhood. The PHS-pro aimed at improving the eating behaviours and lifestyles of Portuguese grade-6 children towards healthier nutritional status. This paper describes and evaluates the PHS-pro concerning: (i) the research design within the theoretical framework grounded on "The Transtheoretical Model" and the stages of change; (ii) the educational components and the application of the participatory methodology to engage children to meet their needs, as active participants in their change process; and (iii) the process evaluation of the intervention. The implementation of the PHS-pro took into account the views and inputs of the participants for evaluating the educational components that should be considered in the designing of interventions aiming to be effective strategies. From the health promotion perspective, this study is important because it examines new approaches and pathways to effectively prevent overweight and obesity in children.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Margarida Vieira
- Research Centre on Child Studies, University of Minho, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal;
| | | |
Collapse
|
5
|
Parker J, Kaur S, Medalla JM, Imbert-Sanchez A, Bautista J. Dietary trends among young adults during the COVID-19 lockdown: socioeconomic and gender disparities. BMC Nutr 2023; 9:107. [PMID: 37749620 PMCID: PMC10519054 DOI: 10.1186/s40795-023-00759-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 09/27/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Healthy eating is vital to well-being and during the COVID-19 pandemic, it was especially important for boosting immunity and protecting against viral infections. Yet, by many accounts, keeping a nutritious diet was a casualty of the pandemic rather than a means to fight it. Young adults experienced disproportionate pandemic-related disruptions during a formative stage of development while little is still known about dietary outcomes. METHODS We employed a cross-sectional design to examine dietary disparities targeting young adults (ages 18-28) during the COVID-19 lockdown period. Participants (N = 254) responded to a 15-20-min online survey with questions related to food composition and sources of food, perceptions of healthy eating, weight change, physical activity, and food insecurity. Comparisons were made by household income and gender. Multiple regression analyses were conducted to investigate factors that predicted perceptions of healthy eating behaviors while controlling for other sociodemographic factors. RESULTS A clear overall trend toward unhealthy behaviors was found while positive changes were also identified. Consumption of junk food significantly increased (+ 3%), 40% gained weight, a third were less active, and 5-8% were food insecure on a regular basis. Meanwhile, eating food from restaurants declined and, for some, home-based cooking increased. Lower income participants were overly represented in unhealthy changes and higher income participants were disproportionately represented in healthy changes. Males reported more changes in dietary composition while females reported more fluctuation in weight. Reduced activity, weight gain, and food insecurity predicted unhealthy eating behaviors. Living with friend(s)/roommate(s) predicted healthier eating, but only among lower income participants. CONCLUSIONS It is recommended that pandemic minded public health interventions account for negative dietary trends with particular attention to low-income young adults. Solutions should be geared toward reshaping fiscal, social and physical environments, rather than relying solely on behavioral interventions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Parker
- Pennsylvania State University, 2809 Saucon Valley Road, Center Valley, Pa, 18034, USA.
| | - Simranpreet Kaur
- Bachelor of Science Student in Biobehavioral Health, Pennsylvania State University, 2809 Saucon Valley Road, Center Valley, Pa, 18034, USA
| | - John Marlo Medalla
- Bachelor of Science Student in Biobehavioral Health, Pennsylvania State University, 2809 Saucon Valley Road, Center Valley, Pa, 18034, USA
| | - Anairobi Imbert-Sanchez
- Bachelor of Science Student in Biobehavioral Health, Pennsylvania State University, 2809 Saucon Valley Road, Center Valley, Pa, 18034, USA
| | - Jeanette Bautista
- Bachelor of Science Student in Biobehavioral Health, Pennsylvania State University, 2809 Saucon Valley Road, Center Valley, Pa, 18034, USA
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Bekelman TA, Knapp EA, Dong Y, Dabelea D, Bastain TM, Breton CV, Carroll KN, Camargo CA, Davis AM, Dunlop AL, Elliott AJ, Ferrara A, Fry RC, Ganiban JM, Gilbert-Diamond D, Gilliland FD, Hedderson MM, Hipwell AE, Hockett CW, Huddleston KC, Karagas MR, Kelly N, Lai JS, Lester BM, Lucchini M, Melough MM, Mihalopoulos NL, O'Shea TM, Rundle AG, Stanford JB, VanBronkhorst S, Wright RJ, Zhao Q, Sauder KA. Sociodemographic Variation in Children's Health Behaviors During the COVID-19 Pandemic. Child Obes 2023; 19:226-238. [PMID: 35856858 PMCID: PMC10398734 DOI: 10.1089/chi.2022.0085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Background: Societal changes during the COVID-19 pandemic may affect children's health behaviors and exacerbate disparities. This study aimed to describe children's health behaviors during the COVID-19 pandemic, how they vary by sociodemographic characteristics, and the extent to which parent coping strategies mitigate the impact of pandemic-related financial strain on these behaviors. Methods: This study used pooled data from 50 cohorts in the Environmental influences on Child Health Outcomes Program. Children or parent proxies reported sociodemographic characteristics, health behaviors, and parent coping strategies. Results: Of 3315 children aged 3-17 years, 49% were female and 57% were non-Hispanic white. Children of parents who reported food access as a source of stress were 35% less likely to engage in a higher level of physical activity. Children of parents who changed their work schedule to care for their children had 82 fewer min/day of screen time and 13 more min/day of sleep compared with children of parents who maintained their schedule. Parents changing their work schedule were also associated with a 31% lower odds of the child consuming sugar-sweetened beverages. Conclusions: Parents experiencing pandemic-related financial strain may need additional support to promote healthy behaviors. Understanding how changes in parent work schedules support shorter screen time and longer sleep duration can inform future interventions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Traci A. Bekelman
- Lifecourse Epidemiology of Adiposity and Diabetes (LEAD) Center, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Emily A. Knapp
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Yanan Dong
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Dana Dabelea
- Lifecourse Epidemiology of Adiposity and Diabetes (LEAD) Center, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Tracy M. Bastain
- Department of Population and Public Health Sciences, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Carrie V. Breton
- Department of Population and Public Health Sciences, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Kecia N. Carroll
- Department of Pediatrics, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Carlos A. Camargo
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Ann M. Davis
- Department of Pediatrics, Center for Children's Healthy Lifestyles & Nutrition, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, USA
| | - Anne L. Dunlop
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Amy J. Elliott
- Department of Pediatrics, Avera Research Institute, University of South Dakota School of Medicine, Sioux Falls, SD, USA
| | - Assiamira Ferrara
- Kaiser Permanente Northern California Division of Research, Oakland, CA, USA
| | - Rebecca C. Fry
- Department of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Jody M. Ganiban
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Diane Gilbert-Diamond
- Department of Epidemiology, Medicine and Pediatrics, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, NH, USA
| | - Frank D. Gilliland
- Department of Population and Public Health Sciences, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | | | - Alison E. Hipwell
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Christine W. Hockett
- Department of Pediatrics, Avera Research Institute, University of South Dakota School of Medicine, Sioux Falls, SD, USA
| | - Kathi C. Huddleston
- College of Health and Human Services, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA, USA
| | - Margaret R. Karagas
- Department of Epidemiology, Medicine and Pediatrics, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, NH, USA
| | - Nichole Kelly
- Department of Counseling Psychology and Human Services, Prevention Science Institute, University of Oregon, Eugene, OR, USA
| | - Jin-Shei Lai
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Barry M. Lester
- Departments of Pediatrics and Psychiatry, Center for the Study of Children at Risk, Alpert Medical School of Brown University and Women and Infants Hospital, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Maristella Lucchini
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Melissa M. Melough
- Center for Child Health, Behavior and Development, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA, USA
| | | | - T. Michael O'Shea
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Andrew G. Rundle
- Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Joseph B. Stanford
- Department of Family and Preventive Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Sara VanBronkhorst
- Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, New York State Psychiatric Institute, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Rosalind J. Wright
- Department of Environmental Medicine and Public Health, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Qi Zhao
- Department of Preventive Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Katherine A. Sauder
- Lifecourse Epidemiology of Adiposity and Diabetes (LEAD) Center, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Long X, Li XY, Jiang H, Shen LD, Zhang LF, Pu Z, Gao X, Li M. Impact of the COVID-19 kindergarten closure on overweight and obesity among 3- to 7-year-old children. World J Pediatr 2023; 19:469-477. [PMID: 36507980 PMCID: PMC9742663 DOI: 10.1007/s12519-022-00651-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2022] [Accepted: 11/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Knowledge on the impact of the temporary kindergarten closure policy under COVID-19 in 2020 on childhood overweight and obesity is inadequate. We aimed to examine differences in rates of overweight and obesity from 2018 to 2021 among kindergarten children aged 3-7 years. METHODS Overweight was defined as body mass index (BMI) > 1 standard deviation (SD) for age and sex, and obesity was defined as BMI > 2 SD for age and sex. Generalized linear mixed modeling was used for analysis. RESULTS A total of 44,884 children and 71,216 growth data points from all 57 public kindergartens in Jiading District, Shanghai, China were analyzed. The rates of obesity from 2018 to 2021 were 6.9%, 6.6%, 9.5%, and 7.3% in boys and 2.8%, 2.8%, 4.5%, and 3.1% in girls, respectively. The rates of overweight from 2018 to 2021 were 14.3%, 14.3%, 18.2%, and 15.3% in boys and 10.6%, 10.9%, 13.9%, and 11.6% in girls. The rates of obesity and overweight among kindergarten children in 2020 were significantly higher than those in 2018, 2019, and 2021. Compared to 2020, the odds ratios of the obesity rate in 2018, 2019, and 2021 were 0.67 [95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.58-0.77, P < 0.001], 0.72 (95% CI = 0.64-0.80, P < 0.001) and 0.81 (95% CI = 0.72-0.92, P = 0.001), respectively. The odds ratios of the overweight rate in 2018, 2019, and 2021 were 0.75 (95% CI = 0.69-0.82, P < 0.001), 0.78 (95% CI = 0.72-0.84, P < 0.001), and 0.89 (95% CI = 0.81-0.97, P = 0.008), respectively, compared to 2020. CONCLUSIONS The rates of overweight and obesity significantly increased among kindergarten children in 2020 after the 5-month kindergarten closure. It was critical to provide guidance to caregivers on fostering a healthy lifestyle for children at home under public health emergencies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Long
- Department of Woman and Child Health Care, Jiading Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, 1216 Gaotai Road, Jiading District, Shanghai 201821, China
| | - Xing-Ying Li
- School of Public Health, Key Laboratory of Health Technology Assessment (National Health Commission of the People's Republic of China), Fudan University, Mailbox 175, 138 Yixueyuan Road, Xuhui District, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Hong Jiang
- School of Public Health, Key Laboratory of Health Technology Assessment (National Health Commission of the People's Republic of China), Fudan University, Mailbox 175, 138 Yixueyuan Road, Xuhui District, Shanghai 200032, China.
| | - Lian-Di Shen
- Department of Administrative Office, Jiading Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, 1216 Gaotai Road, Jiading District, Shanghai 201821, China.
| | - Li-Feng Zhang
- Department of Woman and Child Health Care, Jiading Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, 1216 Gaotai Road, Jiading District, Shanghai 201821, China
| | - Zheng Pu
- Department of Woman and Child Health Care, Jiading Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, 1216 Gaotai Road, Jiading District, Shanghai 201821, China
| | - Xia Gao
- Department of Woman and Child Health Care, Jiading Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, 1216 Gaotai Road, Jiading District, Shanghai 201821, China
| | - Mu Li
- School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Evgi̇n D, Kılıç KM. Relationship between healthy life awareness, emotional eating, obesity awareness, and coping stress in adolescents. PSYCHOLOGY IN THE SCHOOLS 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/pits.22834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Derya Evgi̇n
- Department of Child Development, Faculty of Health Sciences Kayseri University Kayseri Turkey
| | - Kızbes Meral Kılıç
- Department of Child Development, Faculty of Health Sciences Akdeniz University Antalya Turkey
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Park J, Hwang S, Baek S, Ten Hoor GA. An Interactive Live and Online Cooking Program for Children in Vulnerable Families-An Exploratory Study. Healthcare (Basel) 2022; 10:healthcare10122389. [PMID: 36553913 PMCID: PMC9778471 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare10122389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2022] [Revised: 11/06/2022] [Accepted: 11/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of technology for communication and social interactions. Especially for children in low-income families-a vulnerable population suffering from health and digital disparities-the situation worsened during the pandemic. Earlier studies in times of COVID-19 suggested that the children in Korea who usually do homework and dine at community childcare centers (CCCCs, free after-school care places) need to learn more about how to eat healthily and how to interact with others using digital technology. Therefore, to reduce these children's health and digital inequalities, an interactive live and online cooking program was developed and provided to 313 children and 95 staff members at the 29 CCCCs located in the southern provinces in South Korea. The aim of the current study was to explore the experiences of children and staff with the program. After surveying their experiences, a high degree of satisfaction was found (children: 3.60 ± 0.10; staff: 3.63 ± 0.08 points out of 4.00). Aspects that needed improvement in the program were related to (in)experience in online technology, the frequency and timing of the cooking classes, and the communication between the centers and (online) chefs. In addition, in a word cloud analysis, terms such as 'fun', 'delicious', and 'want' were highlighted for children, and terms such as 'participating' and 'preparation' dominantly appeared for the staff. In the analysis of negative experiences, terms related to environmental factors such as 'sound', 'hear', and 'voice' were highlighted. This novel but preliminary approach for children from low-income families, by integrating cooking with digital technology, indicates that with enough digital support, the CCCCs are a promising platform to promote healthy eating and digital literacy. Optimizing and disseminating these strategies during this pandemic period, and future pandemics, could be beneficial to keep children in their communities healthy, and ultimately reduce socioeconomic health disparities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jiyoung Park
- Institute for Health Science Research, College of Nursing, Inje University, Busan 44720, Republic of Korea
| | - Sein Hwang
- Department of Social Welfare Administration, College of Health and Welfare, Inje University, Gimhae-si 50834, Republic of Korea
| | - Seolhyang Baek
- Department of Nursing, College of Nursing, WISE Campus, Dongguk University, Dongdaero 123, Gyeongju-si 38066, Republic of Korea
| | - Gill A. Ten Hoor
- Department of Work & Social Psychology, Faculty of Psychology and Neurosciences, Maastricht University, P.O. Box 616, 6200 MD Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Li G, Yang L, Xu X, Chen M, Cai Y, Wen Y, Xie X, Lu X, Luo S, Lin S, Li H, Wu S. Physical Changes of Preschool Children during COVID-19 School Closures in Fujian, China. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:13699. [PMID: 36294276 PMCID: PMC9602639 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192013699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2022] [Revised: 10/14/2022] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic may constitute an "obesogenic lifestyle" that results in exacerbating childhood obesity. However, studies investigating regional sociodemographic factors including different age groups or sexes in children with obesity are lacking. We aimed to clarify the high obesity prevalence populations of preschool children to provide a regional basis for children's health policy during the COVID-19 school closures. From May to September 2019, a total of 29,518 preschool children were included in a large sample, multicenter cross-sectional study to explore physical status in Fujian Province by stratified cluster random sampling. In October 2019 and October 2020, we also conducted a cross-sectional study exploring physical development including changes in height, weight, and BMI of 1688 preschool children in Fuzhou before and after the COVID-19 school closures. Student' s t-test, Mann-Whitney U test, or chi-square test was used to assess differences in physical development and overweight and obesity rates among preschool children before and after school closures. For regional factors, the weight of urban preschool children of all ages became higher after the outbreak (p (age 3-4) = 0.009; p (age 4-5) < 0.001; p (age 5-6) = 0.002). For sex factors, overweight and obesity in boys had a greater prevalence than in girls before and after the outbreak. In four age groups, overweight and obesity rates in the 5-year-old group (15.5% and 9.9%) were higher than before (11.4% and 6.0%). The weight and BMI of 4- to 5-year-old children also increased faster than before (p < 0.001). The COVID-19 pandemic has promoted the epidemic of childhood obesity. Living in urban/coastal (economically developed) areas, boys, and aged 4-6 years old may be a susceptible population to obesity development after the outbreak.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Guobo Li
- Department of Child Healthcare Centre, Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital, College of Clinical Medicine for Obstetrics & Gynecology and Pediatrics, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350001, China
| | - Le Yang
- School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350122, China
| | - Xingyan Xu
- School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350122, China
| | - Mingjun Chen
- School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350122, China
| | - Yingying Cai
- Department of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics, Fujian Children’s Hospital, Fuzhou 350014, China
| | - Yeying Wen
- School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350122, China
| | - Xiaoxu Xie
- School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350122, China
| | - Xinyue Lu
- School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350122, China
| | - Suping Luo
- School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350122, China
| | - Shaowei Lin
- School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350122, China
| | - Huangyuan Li
- School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350122, China
| | - Siying Wu
- School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350122, China
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Bozzola E, Caffarelli C, Santamaria F, Corsello G. The year 2021 in COVID-19 pandemic in children. Ital J Pediatr 2022; 48:161. [PMID: 36064605 PMCID: PMC9444079 DOI: 10.1186/s13052-022-01360-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
In this article, the developments in the field of COVID-19 pandemic published in the Italian Journal of Pediatrics in 2021 are reflected. We describe progresses in SARS-CoV-2 transmission route, clinical presentation, diagnosis, treatment, and access to health care facilities in children. They led to substantial changes in the clinical approach.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elena Bozzola
- Department of Pediatric, IRCCS Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, Pediatric Diseases Unit, Rome, Italy.
| | - Carlo Caffarelli
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Clinica Pediatrica, Azienda Ospedaliera-Universitaria, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Francesca Santamaria
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Federico II University, Naples, Italy
| | - Giovanni Corsello
- Department of Sciences for Health Promotion and Mother and Child Care "G. D'Alessandro", University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Dezanetti T, Quinaud RT, Caraher M, Jomori MM. Meal preparation and consumption before and during the COVID-19 pandemic: The relationship with cooking skills of Brazilian university students. Appetite 2022; 175:106036. [PMID: 35429579 PMCID: PMC9007752 DOI: 10.1016/j.appet.2022.106036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2021] [Revised: 03/27/2022] [Accepted: 04/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to analyze meal preparation and the place of its consumption by university students before and during the COVID-19 pandemic, according to their individual characteristics and cooking skills. METHODS Data were collected with 1919 Brazilian university students using the Brazilian Cooking Skills Questionnaire (BCSQ) and questions about gender, living arrangement, knowing how to cook and location of meal consumption. Bayesian multilevel ordinal regression models were used to estimate the probabilities of meal preparation and local location of its consumption by Brazilian university students before and during the COVID-19 pandemic, according to their individual characteristics and cooking skills. RESULTS Most of participants showed reported a high level of cooking skills (70.7%). Also, they reported a decrease in ordering delivery of take-away food and eating fast-food, while increasing homemade meals with fresh ingredients, ultra-processed food or both during the pandemic compared to the period before the quarantine. Lastly, they increased their cooking frequency during the pandemic, regardless of their cooking skills level. However, the group with high cooking skills had a greater increase in the use of fresh ingredients. CONCLUSIONS The study showed that the pandemic was an opportunity for university students to increase their cooking skills and frequency of cooking at home with a variety of foods. Particular attention should be given to those with low cooking skills and that use ultra-processed foods, promoting interventions to disseminate information and with behavior change components to teach about healthy cooking to increase cooking knowledge and skills, focusing on preparation of fresh ingredients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Talissa Dezanetti
- Department of Nutrition, Federal University of Santa Catarina (UFSC). Health Sciences Centre. Reitor João David Ferreira Lima Campus, 88040-900, Florianópolis, Santa Catarina, Brazil.
| | - Ricardo Teixeira Quinaud
- Physical Education Postgraduate Programme, Federal University of Santa Catarina (UFSC). Health Sciences Centre. Reitor João David Ferreira Lima Campus, 88040-900, Florianópolis, Santa Catarina, Brazil.
| | - Martin Caraher
- Centre for Food Policy, City, University of London, Northampton Square, EC1V 0HB, London, UK.
| | - Manuela Mika Jomori
- Department of Nutrition, Federal University of Santa Catarina (UFSC). Health Sciences Centre. Reitor João David Ferreira Lima Campus, 88040-900, Florianópolis, Santa Catarina, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Bartha K, Csengeri L, Lichthammer A, Erdélyi A, Kubányi J, Szűcs Z. Impact of the first COVID–19 lockdown on the lifestyle of elementary school children. ACTA ALIMENTARIA 2022. [DOI: 10.1556/066.2022.00056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
COVID-19 lockdown affects people's daily routine and has an impact on their lifestyle. Recent studies documented associations between body weight changes and children's lifestyle during social isolation. Childhood obesity is associated with a higher risk of COVID-19 severity and mortality. Our aim was to assess the effects of lockdown due to the COVID-19 pandemic on children's sleep, screen time, physical activity, and eating habits. 387 parents of five elementary school students between 16 and 26 June 2020 were interviewed through an online questionnaire. Physical activity level decreased (63.8%), sleep (60.9%) and screen (5.64 ± 3.05 h/day) times and food intake (39.8%) increased. 80.6% of parents reported changes in children's diet: increased consumption of fruits and vegetables (32.4%), breakfast (15.5%), water and sugar-free beverages (17.6%), snacks (40.4%), sugary drinks (9.9%) was observed. Body weight increased in 44.4% of children. The results of the survey conducted under GYERE®-Children's Health Program are in line with the international literature findings: body weight change during the quarantine is significantly associated with food intake, snacking, sugary drinks, and we also found association with fruit and vegetable consumption and lack of breakfast. Effective strategies and electronic health interventions are needed to prevent sedentary lifestyle and obesity during lockdown.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- K.O. Bartha
- Doctoral School of Health Sciences, Semmelweis University, Üllői út 26, H-1085, Budapest, Hungary
| | - L. Csengeri
- Endocare Endocrinology Center, Bokor utca 17–21, H-1037, Budapest, Hungary
| | - A. Lichthammer
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Semmelweis University, Vas utca 17, H-1088, Budapest, Hungary
| | - A. Erdélyi
- Hungarian Dietetic Association, Kerék utca 80, H-1035, Budapest, Hungary
| | - J. Kubányi
- Hungarian Dietetic Association, Kerék utca 80, H-1035, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Zs. Szűcs
- Doctoral School of Health Sciences, Semmelweis University, Üllői út 26, H-1085, Budapest, Hungary
- Hungarian Dietetic Association, Kerék utca 80, H-1035, Budapest, Hungary
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Mirzay-Razaz J, Hassanghomi M, Ajami M, Koochakpoor G, Hosseini-Esfahani F, Mirmiran P. Effective food hygiene principles and dietary intakes to reinforce the immune system for prevention of COVID-19: a systematic review. BMC Nutr 2022; 8:53. [PMID: 35655264 PMCID: PMC9162791 DOI: 10.1186/s40795-022-00546-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2021] [Accepted: 04/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background This study aimed at reviewing effective food hygiene principles and dietary intakes to reinforce the immune system for prevention of corona virus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Methods The systematic literature search was performed in three databases from Jan. 2020 up to 10th July 2020. English articles that focused on nutrition, food, immunity and corona virus were searched. Systematic and narrative reviews were included. Results After evaluation of search papers, 27 relevant articles were used in this review. The importance of nutrients, phytochemicals, probiotics and some spices were highlighted for enhancing immunity during the COVID-19 pandemic. A healthy dietary pattern with proper energy intake provides sufficient nutrients. The unhealthy dietary pattern is linked with inflammation and risk factors related to high mortality in patients with severe COVID-19 infection. Different thermal procedures have been used for the inactivation of viruses. It is recommended not to consume raw or undercooked animal products. Conclusions It is critical to ensure that the nutritional needs of the population are met and sustained based on standards during a COVID-19 pandemic. Clear advice on adequate calorie intake and an optimal healthy diet to support the immune function should be provided. Good hygiene practices must be performed by everyone and done in the food industry.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jalaledin Mirzay-Razaz
- Department of Community Nutrition, Faculty of Nutrition and Food Technology, National Nutrition and Food Technology Research Institute, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Majid Hassanghomi
- Department of Technology Assessment, Standard and Tarif for Health, Deputy for Care Affair, Ministry of Health and Medical Education (MOHME), Tehran, Iran
| | - Marjan Ajami
- Department of Food and Nutrition Policy and Planning Research, National Nutrition and Food Technology Research Institute, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Firoozeh Hosseini-Esfahani
- Nutrition and Endocrine Research Center, Research Institute for Endocrine Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Parvin Mirmiran
- Nutrition and Endocrine Research Center, Research Institute for Endocrine Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Sümen A, Evgin D. A cross-sectional study examining self-reported anthropometric measurements with adolescents' nutrition attitudes, obesity awareness and diet quality indices during the pandemic. J Pediatr Nurs 2022; 64:133-140. [PMID: 35181175 PMCID: PMC9759513 DOI: 10.1016/j.pedn.2022.01.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2021] [Revised: 01/22/2022] [Accepted: 01/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The purpose of this study is to evaluate the relationship between adolescents' nutritional attitudes, obesity awareness, and diet quality with their self-reported anthropometric measurements taken during the COVID-19 pandemic. DESIGN AND METHODS This cross-sectional type of study was conducted in a district in the south of Turkey. The research was carried out online with 907 adolescents who agreed to participate voluntarily. RESULTS Among the adolescents, 28.5% considered themselves overweight, and 32.1% were currently trying to lose weight. According to BMI, 16.1% were affected by overweight/obesity. Adolescents' nutritional attitudes and obesity awareness levels were moderate, while their KIDMED nutritional habits were also moderate. In this study, a negative relationship was found between the adolescents' ASHN mean scores and their body weight, waist circumference, hip circumference, neck circumference, waist/hip ratio and waist/height ratio measurements; and between their OAS mean scores and their body weight, waist circumference, waist/hip ratio and waist/height ratio measurements; and between their KIDMED index scores and their waist/height ratio measurements (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS The rate of adolescents who perceive themselves as overweight is higher than the results obtained from the measurement values. BMI levels and other anthropometric measurement values of adolescents with positive nutrition attitudes and physical activity behaviours are also positively affected. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS This study may have a significant impact on the formulation and implementation of interventions to prevent obesity and increase physical activity for school health nurses. Since the pandemic is still continuing, healthcare providers must stress the risk of obesity in adolescence.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Adem Sümen
- Department of Public Health Nursing, Kumluca Faculty of Health Sciences, Akdeniz University, Antalya, Turkey.
| | - Derya Evgin
- Department of Child Health Nursing, Kumluca Faculty of Health Sciences, Akdeniz University, Antalya, Turkey.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Yang D, Luo C, Feng X, Qi W, Qu S, Zhou Y, Sun L, Wu H. Changes in obesity and lifestyle behaviours during the COVID-19 pandemic in Chinese adolescents: A longitudinal analysis from 2019 to 2020. Pediatr Obes 2022; 17:e12874. [PMID: 34937132 PMCID: PMC9285693 DOI: 10.1111/ijpo.12874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Since December 2019, the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has become a global pandemic. Currently, the COVID-19 pandemic is still ongoing. What changes have taken place in the obesity and obesity-related lifestyle behaviours of adolescents during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic? OBJECTIVE This study aims at analysing the changes in obesity and lifestyle behaviours of Chinese adolescents before and 1 year after the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, providing evidence for the global strategies to respond to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on adolescent obesity. METHODS Physical examinations and student health and influencing factors questionnaires were conducted among 6047 adolescents aged 11-16 years by health professionals in Shanghai, China, before the COVID-19 pandemic (September-November of 2019) and 1 year after the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic (September-November of 2020). Paired χ2 tests, paired t-tests or Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used to evaluate the changes in the obesity prevalence, BMI and lifestyle behaviours from 2019 to 2020. RESULTS 1 year after the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, the obesity prevalence of Chinese adolescents rose from 14.2% to 15.4% (p < 0.01), mainly because of the increase in boys. And the average BMI increased from 20.3 to 21.2 kg/m2 (p < 0.01). Their lifestyle behaviours have also significantly changed. The mobile screen time increased from 0.25-1.50 h/day to 0.33-2.00 h/day (p < 0.01). The proportion of adolescents who participated in MVPA for ≥60 min/day on all 7 days during the past week dropped from 14.4% to 11.7% (p < 0.01). The generalized estimation equation analysis indicated that adolescents who participated in MVPA for ≥60 min/day on all 7 days had a lower likelihood of having obesity. Boys with computer time ≥2 h/day and girls with mobile screen time ≥2 h/day or TV time ≥2 h/day had a higher likelihood of having obesity. CONCLUSION This study found that 1 year after the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, the BMI and obesity prevalence of Chinese adolescents increased and obesity-related lifestyle behaviours have also changed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dongling Yang
- Division of Child and Adolescent HealthShanghai Municipal Center for Disease Control and PreventionShanghaiChina
| | - Chunyan Luo
- Division of Child and Adolescent HealthShanghai Municipal Center for Disease Control and PreventionShanghaiChina
| | - Xiaogang Feng
- Division of Child and Adolescent HealthShanghai Municipal Center for Disease Control and PreventionShanghaiChina
| | - Wenjuan Qi
- Division of Child and Adolescent HealthShanghai Municipal Center for Disease Control and PreventionShanghaiChina
| | - Shuangxiao Qu
- Division of Child and Adolescent HealthShanghai Municipal Center for Disease Control and PreventionShanghaiChina
| | - Yuefang Zhou
- Division of Child and Adolescent HealthShanghai Municipal Center for Disease Control and PreventionShanghaiChina
| | - Lijing Sun
- Division of Child and Adolescent HealthShanghai Municipal Center for Disease Control and PreventionShanghaiChina
| | - Huanyu Wu
- Shanghai Municipal Center for Disease Control and PreventionShanghaiChina
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Chigangaidze RK. A call for a new perspective in social work and health care: the developmental-clinical social work perspective. COVID-19 pandemic through the human rights perspective. SOCIAL WORK IN HEALTH CARE 2022; 61:15-35. [PMID: 35240950 DOI: 10.1080/00981389.2022.2027847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2021] [Revised: 12/17/2021] [Accepted: 01/03/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Human rights are essential in shaping the pandemic response both for the public health emergency and the broader impact on people's well-being. Utilizing the human rights lenses, this article expatiates on a developmental-clinical social work approach to the COVID-19 pandemic response. The disquisition explores human rights to health, education, adequate food and nutrition, water and sanitation, and development. It conducts projections and a cost-benefit analysis of remedial and developmental focus on health. The paper emphasizes that it is criminal to deprive human beings of their entitlements. The paper argues that socio-economic inequalities deprive people of their human rights. To this end, it calls for the equal distribution of wealth to end poverty and ultimately address human rights concerns. It advances for the integration of health in all policies. The article calls for the social work profession and other helping professions to rethink of their priorities in the enhancement of people's welfare: either to be an agent of social control or an agent of social change. Social work should face the socio-economic inequalities head-on if it is to truly reflect its professional philosophy of social justice.
Collapse
|
18
|
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The COVID-19 pandemic is associated with increased levels of stress, anxiety and depression in the population. These are associated with unhealthy eating patterns and sedentary behaviour. In turn, this may increase risk of obesity or aggravate it. This narrative review discusses the link between adverse mental health states and weight related behaviours. We present emerging evidence for this phenomenon during the COVID-19 pandemic in individuals with and without pre-existing obesity. RECENT FINDINGS A sizeable proportion of the population exhibits deterioration in mental health during the pandemic and those affected often report unhealthy weight-related behaviours such as "junk food" consumption and physical inactivity. Women, individuals with obesity, and those with pre-existing mental health conditions seem to be particularly at risk for overeating in response to stress (i.e. emotional eating). A number of psychological interventions including cognitive behavioural therapy and self-compassion may be effective in improving mental health and emotional eating patterns among the general population and particularly in individuals living with obesity. There is a need to complement efforts to improve mental health in the general population during the COVID-19 pandemic with targeted action to improve physical activity levels and healthy eating particularly among groups at-risk. This may be achieved by reducing disruptions to specialist and primary healthcare services and facilitating access to psychological interventions that address stress-related eating behaviours. Additional studies that examine such interventions, especially those that are delivered remotely, are urgently needed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Osnat C Melamed
- Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 100 Stokes St, Toronto, Ontario, M6J 1H4, Canada.
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
| | - Peter Selby
- Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 100 Stokes St, Toronto, Ontario, M6J 1H4, Canada
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Valerie H Taylor
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Verduci E, Fiore G, Di Profio E, Zuccotti GV. The Paradox of the Mediterranean Diet in Pediatric Age during the COVID-19 Pandemic. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14030705. [PMID: 35277063 PMCID: PMC8838277 DOI: 10.3390/nu14030705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2021] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Elvira Verduci
- Pediatric Department, “Vittore Buzzi” Children’s Hospital, 20154 Milan, Italy; (G.F.); (E.D.P.); (G.V.Z.)
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Milan, 20142 Milan, Italy
- Correspondence:
| | - Giulia Fiore
- Pediatric Department, “Vittore Buzzi” Children’s Hospital, 20154 Milan, Italy; (G.F.); (E.D.P.); (G.V.Z.)
- Department of Health, Animal Science and Food Safety, University of Milan, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Di Profio
- Pediatric Department, “Vittore Buzzi” Children’s Hospital, 20154 Milan, Italy; (G.F.); (E.D.P.); (G.V.Z.)
- Department of Health, Animal Science and Food Safety, University of Milan, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Gian Vincenzo Zuccotti
- Pediatric Department, “Vittore Buzzi” Children’s Hospital, 20154 Milan, Italy; (G.F.); (E.D.P.); (G.V.Z.)
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Milan, 20142 Milan, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Scapaticci S, Neri CR, Marseglia GL, Staiano A, Chiarelli F, Verduci E. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on lifestyle behaviors in children and adolescents: an international overview. Ital J Pediatr 2022; 48:22. [PMID: 35120570 PMCID: PMC8815717 DOI: 10.1186/s13052-022-01211-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 01/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The adverse effects of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) are not limited to the related infectious disease. In children and adolescents, serious risks due to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic are also related to its indirect effects. These include an unbalanced diet with an increased risk of weight excess or nutritional deficiencies, increased sedentary lifestyle, lack of schooling, social isolation, and impaired mental health.Pediatricians should be aware of the side effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on children's diet, physical mental health and advise the families according to their nutritional needs and financial resources. Moreover, the lack of a targeted therapy able to offer protection against the deleterious effects of SARS-CoV-2 infection should require a greater effort by scientific societies to find a more effective prevention strategy. In this context, much interest should be given to nutritional support, able to contrast malnutrition and to stimulate the immune system.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S Scapaticci
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - C R Neri
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - G L Marseglia
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Pavia IRCCS San Matteo foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - A Staiano
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - F Chiarelli
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy.
| | - E Verduci
- Department of Paediatrics, Children's Hospital "Vittore Buzzi", University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Althubaiti H. The Role of Healthy Diet (HD) on Covid-19 Pandemic during and after. Health (London) 2022. [DOI: 10.4236/health.2022.141008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
|
22
|
Morais AHDA, Passos TS, de Lima Vale SH, da Silva Maia JK, Maciel BLL. Obesity and the increased risk for COVID-19: mechanisms and nutritional management. Nutr Res Rev 2021; 34:209-221. [PMID: 33183383 PMCID: PMC7737140 DOI: 10.1017/s095442242000027x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2020] [Revised: 10/23/2020] [Accepted: 11/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
The global COVID-19 (coronavirus disease 2019) pandemic has become a complex problem that overlaps with a growing public health problem, obesity. Obesity alters different components of the innate and adaptive immune responses, creating a chronic and low-grade state of inflammation. Nutritional status is closely related to a better or worse prognosis of viral infections. Excess weight has been recognised as a risk factor for COVID-19 complications. In addition to the direct risk, obesity triggers other diseases such as diabetes and hypertension, increasing the risk of severe COVID-19. The present review explains the diets that induce obesity and the importance of different foods in this process. We also review tissue disruption in obesity, leading to impaired immune responses and the possible mechanisms by which obesity and its co-morbidities increase COVID-19 morbidity and mortality. Nutritional strategies that support the immune system in patients with obesity and with COVID-19 are also discussed in light of the available data, considering the severity of the infection. The discussions held may contribute to combating this global emergency and planning specific public health policy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ana Heloneida de Araújo Morais
- Nutrition Postgraduate Program, Centre for Health Sciences, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, RN59078-970, Brazil
- Biochemistry Postgraduate Program, Biosciences Centre, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, RN59078-970, Brazil
- Department of Nutrition, Centre for Health Sciences, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, RN59078-970, Brazil
| | - Thais Sousa Passos
- Department of Nutrition, Centre for Health Sciences, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, RN59078-970, Brazil
| | - Sancha Helena de Lima Vale
- Department of Nutrition, Centre for Health Sciences, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, RN59078-970, Brazil
| | - Juliana Kelly da Silva Maia
- Nutrition Postgraduate Program, Centre for Health Sciences, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, RN59078-970, Brazil
- Department of Nutrition, Centre for Health Sciences, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, RN59078-970, Brazil
| | - Bruna Leal Lima Maciel
- Nutrition Postgraduate Program, Centre for Health Sciences, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, RN59078-970, Brazil
- Department of Nutrition, Centre for Health Sciences, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, RN59078-970, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Cena H, Fiechtner L, Vincenti A, Magenes VC, De Giuseppe R, Manuelli M, Zuccotti GV, Calcaterra V. COVID-19 Pandemic as Risk Factors for Excessive Weight Gain in Pediatrics: The Role of Changes in Nutrition Behavior. A Narrative Review. Nutrients 2021; 13:4255. [PMID: 34959805 PMCID: PMC8707175 DOI: 10.3390/nu13124255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2021] [Revised: 11/23/2021] [Accepted: 11/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
During the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, social isolation, semi-lockdown, and "stay at home" orders were imposed upon the population in the interest of infection control. This dramatically changes the daily routine of children and adolescents, with a large impact on lifestyle and wellbeing. Children with obesity have been shown to be at a higher risk of negative lifestyle changes and weight gain during lockdown. Obesity and COVID-19 negatively affect children and adolescents' wellbeing, with adverse effects on psychophysical health, due in large part to food choices, snacking between meals, and comfort eating. Moreover, a markable decrease in physical activity levels and an increase in sedentary behavior is associated with weight gain, especially in children with excessive weight. In addition, obesity is the most common comorbidity in severe cases of COVID-19, suggesting that immune dysregulation, metabolic unbalance, inadequate nutritional status, and dysbiosis are key factors in the complex mechanistic and clinical interplay between obesity and COVID-19. This narrative review aims to describe the most up-to-date evidence on the clinical characteristics of COVID-19 in children and adolescents, focusing on the role of excessive weight and weight gain in pediatrics. The COVID-19 pandemic has taught us that nutrition education interventions, access to healthy food, as well as family nutrition counselling should be covered by pediatric services to prevent obesity, which worsens disease outcomes related to COVID-19 infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hellas Cena
- Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics Service, Unit of Internal Medicine and Endocrinology, ICS Maugeri IRCCS, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (H.C.); or (M.M.)
- Laboratory of Dietetics and Clinical Nutrition, Department of Public Health, Experimental and Forensic Medicine, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (A.V.); (R.D.G.)
| | - Lauren Fiechtner
- Division of General Academic Pediatrics, Department of Pediatrics, Massachusetts General Hospital for Children, Boston, MA 02114, USA;
- Division of Gastroenterology and Nutrition, Massachusetts General Hospital for Children, Boston, MA 02114, USA
- Center for Pediatric Nutrition, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Alessandra Vincenti
- Laboratory of Dietetics and Clinical Nutrition, Department of Public Health, Experimental and Forensic Medicine, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (A.V.); (R.D.G.)
| | | | - Rachele De Giuseppe
- Laboratory of Dietetics and Clinical Nutrition, Department of Public Health, Experimental and Forensic Medicine, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (A.V.); (R.D.G.)
| | - Matteo Manuelli
- Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics Service, Unit of Internal Medicine and Endocrinology, ICS Maugeri IRCCS, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (H.C.); or (M.M.)
| | - Gian Vincenzo Zuccotti
- Pediatric Department, “V. Buzzi” Children’s Hospital, 20154 Milan, Italy; (V.C.M.); (G.V.Z.)
- “L. Sacco” Department of Biomedical and Clinical Science, University of Milan, 20157 Milan, Italy
| | - Valeria Calcaterra
- Pediatric Department, “V. Buzzi” Children’s Hospital, 20154 Milan, Italy; (V.C.M.); (G.V.Z.)
- Pediatric and Adolescent Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Valenzise M, D'Amico F, Cucinotta U, Lugarà C, Zirilli G, Zema A, Wasniewska M, Pajno GB. The lockdown effects on a pediatric obese population in the COVID-19 era. Ital J Pediatr 2021; 47:209. [PMID: 34663397 PMCID: PMC8521262 DOI: 10.1186/s13052-021-01142-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2021] [Accepted: 08/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The social consequences of COVID-19 pandemic are universally known. In particular, the pediatric population is dealing with a radical lifestyle change. For some risk categories, such as overweight or obese children, the impact of home confinement has been greater than for others. The increased sedentary life, the wrong diet and social distancing have stopped the chance of losing weight. The aims of this study were to analyse the impact of COVID-19 lockdown on the behavior changes in a obese pediatric population and to explore the correlation between the new lifestyle and the level of parental instruction. Methods Data show features of 40 obese and overweight pediatric patients of our Clinic in Messina (Italy). We evaluated weight, height, BMI and other biochemical parameters: total cholesterol, HDL, LDL, triglyceride, transaminases, glycemia and insulinemia. After the lockdown, we contacted all patients in order to get some information about diet, physical activity and sedentary lifestyle changes in correlation to the level of their parents’ instruction. Additionally, we also evaluated 20 children twice from a clinical and laboratory perspective. Results The study showed an increase of daily meals during COVID-19 lockdown (3.2 ± 0.4 vs 5 ± 1, P < 0.001). In particular, children whose parents have primary school diploma ate a greater significant number of meals during the lockdown, compared to those who have parents with secondary school diploma (P = 0.0019). In addition, the 95% of patients did low physical activity during the lockdown and the 97.5% spent more time in sedentary activity. Even if BMI’s values don’t show significant differences, they have increased after the lockdown. We didn’t find any correlation between biochemical parameters before and after the lockdown. Conclusion The lockdown has had bad consequences on good style of life’s maintenance in overweight and obese children. The absence of a significant correlation between the worsening of biochemical parameters and the lockdown doesn’t allow to exclude any long-term consequences. It’s safe to assume that, if the hours spent in sedentary activity and the number of meals don’t diminish, there will probably repercussion on the biochemical parameters.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M Valenzise
- Department of Human Pathology of Adulthood and Childhood, University of Messina, Messina, Italy.
| | - F D'Amico
- Department of Human Pathology of Adulthood and Childhood, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - U Cucinotta
- Department of Human Pathology of Adulthood and Childhood, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - C Lugarà
- Department of Human Pathology of Adulthood and Childhood, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - G Zirilli
- Department of Human Pathology of Adulthood and Childhood, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - A Zema
- Department of Human Pathology of Adulthood and Childhood, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - M Wasniewska
- Department of Human Pathology of Adulthood and Childhood, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - G B Pajno
- Department of Human Pathology of Adulthood and Childhood, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Action and Reaction of Pre-Primary and Primary School-Age Children to Restrictions during COVID-19 Pandemic in Greece. J Pers Med 2021; 11:jpm11060451. [PMID: 34070992 PMCID: PMC8224797 DOI: 10.3390/jpm11060451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2021] [Revised: 05/18/2021] [Accepted: 05/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The fast-spreading coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic forced countries to apply restrictive measures to counteract it. School closure was quickly adopted by health authorities. We aimed to investigate the compliance of children aged 4 to 12 years with the COVID-19 lockdown restrictions and evaluate the impact of school closure on the children’s educational, social, economic, and psychological outcomes. An online survey was distributed through a social networking platform to parents of pre-primary and primary school-age children. The study period was defined as from 27 November 2020 to 3 December 2020, two weeks after the school closure due to the general lockdown in Greece. This study showed that the school units were well-informed and complied with the protection measures against COVID-19. The pupils quickly adopted the protection measures, even those whose parents suggested masks were less effective. The quarantine-forced school closure highly impacted primary school children’s physical activity, quality of sleep, psychological status, eating habits, academic performance, and household income. Web use showed an increase, with the children over-spending extracurricular time in web activities. Our study highlights the need for long term monitoring of these aforementioned indices, and the development of COVID-19 mitigation measures that carefully incorporate effectiveness and societal impact.
Collapse
|
26
|
Spolidoro GCI, Azzolino D, Shamir R, Cesari M, Agostoni C. Joint Effort towards Preventing Nutritional Deficiencies at the Extremes of Life during COVID-19. Nutrients 2021; 13:1616. [PMID: 34065864 PMCID: PMC8150599 DOI: 10.3390/nu13051616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2021] [Revised: 05/10/2021] [Accepted: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 (Coronavirus disease 2019) pandemic is posing a threat to communities and healthcare systems worldwide. Malnutrition, in all its forms, may negatively impact the susceptibility and severity of SARS-CoV-2 (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2) infection in both children and older adults. Both undernutrition and obesity have been evoked as conditions associated with a higher susceptibility to the infection and poor prognosis. In turn, the COVID-19 infection may worsen the nutritional status through highly catabolic conditions, exposing individuals to the risk of malnutrition, muscle wasting, and nutritional deficiencies. Accordingly, the relationship between malnutrition and COVID-19 is likely to be bidirectional. Furthermore, the modification of nutritional behaviors and physical activity, required to limit the spread of the virus, are posing a challenge to health at both the extremes of life. Thus far, even the most advanced healthcare systems have failed to address the alarming consequences of malnutrition posed by this pandemic. If not properly addressed, we may run the risk that new and old generations will experience the consequences of COVID-19 related malnutrition.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Giulia C. I. Spolidoro
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy; (G.C.I.S.); (D.A.); (M.C.)
| | - Domenico Azzolino
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy; (G.C.I.S.); (D.A.); (M.C.)
- Geriatric Unit, IRCCS Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri, 20138 Milan, Italy
| | - Raanan Shamir
- Nutrition and Liver Diseases, Schneider Children’s Medical Center of Israel, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Gastroenterology, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 6997801, Israel;
| | - Matteo Cesari
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy; (G.C.I.S.); (D.A.); (M.C.)
- Geriatric Unit, IRCCS Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri, 20138 Milan, Italy
| | - Carlo Agostoni
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy; (G.C.I.S.); (D.A.); (M.C.)
- Pediatric Intermediate Care Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20122 Milan, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Radwan A, Radwan E, Radwan W. Eating habits among primary and secondary school students in the Gaza Strip, Palestine: A cross-sectional study during the COVID-19 pandemic. Appetite 2021; 163:105222. [PMID: 33798621 DOI: 10.1016/j.appet.2021.105222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2020] [Revised: 03/05/2021] [Accepted: 03/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic has a great impact on the eating habits, dietary intake, and purchasing behaviours of students. At this critical moment, there is an urgent need to identify the eating habits of school students, in particular, who live in low-income countries, during the lockdown period. Therefore, the present study aims to identify the influence of COVID-19 on the eating habits, quality and quantity of food intake among school students in the Gaza Strip, Palestine. METHODS A cross-sectional study was carried out among 2398 primary and secondary school students aged 6-18 year old through an online questionnaire which included questions on socio-demographic, eating habits as well as quality and quantity of food intake. Students over the age of 11 years completed the questionnaire on their own, whereas for students under the age of 12 years, the students' guardians were instructed to answer the questionnaire on their behalf. A Wilcoxon Signed-Rank and McNemar tests were applied to perform a comparison between general dietary habits before and during COVID-19. Also, a Wilcoxon Signed Rank test was used to compare the median scores of food quality and quantity before and during the COVID-19 pandemic based on student's sociodemographic. RESULTS During the COVID-19 pandemic, there was a significant increase in eating home-cooked foods (91.6%), avoiding ordering food from outside per week (93.3%) and buying groceries online (7.7%) (p < 0.001). There was a marked increase in the students reporting fear about food hygiene outside the home from 20.8% before COVID-19 to 72.9% during the COVID-19 period (p < 0.001). The results showed that the median score for food quality during the COVID-19 pandemic (11.0/6.0) was significantly higher than the before COVID-19 period (10.0, IQR = 8.0) (p < 0.001). The results revealed that the median score for food quantity before the COVID-19 pandemic (15.0, IQR = 5.0) was significantly higher than the during COVID-19 pandemic (14.0, IQR = 7.0) (p < 0.001). The results showed significant differences between the before and during COVID-19 period for food quality and quantity across socio-demographic variables (gender, age group, parent's highest level of education, monthly household income, and household size). During the COVID-19 pandemic, students from a high-income and a small size family had the highest score in terms of food quality and quantity among other counterparts when compared to other counterparts. CONCLUSION Eating habits have significantly altered among school students during the COVID-19 pandemic. In spite of some good healthy habits enhanced among students, the quantity and the quality of the food was compromised. Therefore, the responsible officials at the Ministry of Education must focus on enhancing school students' awareness towards increased intake of healthy food and adopting good eating habits during the spread of pandemics and health diseases to avoid its negative effects on students.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Afnan Radwan
- Faculty of Education, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza Strip, Palestine
| | - Eqbal Radwan
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza Strip, Palestine; Directorate of Education-East Gaza, Ministry of Education and Higher Education, Gaza Strip, Palestine.
| | - Walaa Radwan
- Faculty of Education, Ummah Open University, Gaza Strip, Palestine
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Androutsos O, Perperidi M, Georgiou C, Chouliaras G. Lifestyle Changes and Determinants of Children's and Adolescents' Body Weight Increase during the First COVID-19 Lockdown in Greece: The COV-EAT Study. Nutrients 2021; 13:nu13030930. [PMID: 33805678 PMCID: PMC7998995 DOI: 10.3390/nu13030930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 110] [Impact Index Per Article: 36.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2021] [Revised: 03/05/2021] [Accepted: 03/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Previous studies showed that the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) lockdown imposed changes in adults’ lifestyle behaviors; however, there is limited information regarding the effects on youth. The COV-EAT study aimed to report changes in children’s and adolescents’ lifestyle habits during the first COVID-19 lockdown and explore potential associations between changes of participants’ lifestyle behaviors and body weight. An online survey among 397 children/adolescents and their parents across 63 municipalities in Greece was conducted in April–May 2020. Parents self-reported changes of their children’s lifestyle habits and body weight, as well as sociodemographic data of their family. The present study shows that during the lockdown, children’s/adolescents’ sleep duration and screen time increased, while their physical activity decreased. Their consumption of fruits and fresh fruit juices, vegetables, dairy products, pasta, sweets, total snacks, and breakfast increased, while fast-food consumption decreased. Body weight increased in 35% of children/adolescents. A multiple regression analysis showed that the body weight increase was associated with increased consumption of breakfast, salty snacks, and total snacks and with decreased physical activity. The COV-EAT study revealed changes in children’s and adolescents’ lifestyle behaviors during the first COVID-19 lockdown in Greece. Effective strategies are needed to prevent excessive body weight gain in future COVID-19 lockdowns.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Odysseas Androutsos
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, School of Physical Education, Sport Science and Dietetics, University of Thessaly, 42132 Trikala, Greece; (M.P.); (C.G.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +30-24310-47108
| | - Maria Perperidi
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, School of Physical Education, Sport Science and Dietetics, University of Thessaly, 42132 Trikala, Greece; (M.P.); (C.G.)
| | - Christos Georgiou
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, School of Physical Education, Sport Science and Dietetics, University of Thessaly, 42132 Trikala, Greece; (M.P.); (C.G.)
| | - Giorgos Chouliaras
- Second Department of Paediatrics, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece;
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Chigangaidze RK. Risk Factors and Effects of the Morbus: COVID-19 through the Biopsychosocial Model and Ecological Systems Approach to Social Work Practice. SOCIAL WORK IN PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 36:98-117. [PMID: 33380283 DOI: 10.1080/19371918.2020.1859035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Utilizing the biopsychosocial model and the ecological systems theory, this disquisition explores on the risk factors associated with the COVID-19 pandemic. The discourse shows the interconnectedness of biological, psychological, and social domains in expatiating on the COVID-19 pandemic. It calls for the need to strengthen the resilience of the global community in the face of health outbreaks such as COVID-19. It emphasizes on the perspectives that pandemics are managed before they emerge through building systems that are resilient. Thus, it appreciates the need for a therapeutic milieu as a building block to resilience. The article calls for the adoption of a developmental stance to analyzing health outbreaks and clinical issues. The adumbration shows the reciprocity effects of the health outbreak [macrocosms] and individual factors [microcosms]. To its end, the paper implies that COVID-19 is a call for integration toward effective health planning between social policy formulators, urban and rural planners, epidemiologists, development practitioners, clinicians, researchers to mention but a few. Ultimately, the paper calls for social workers to consider a developmental-clinical social work approach which helps foster "health in all policies" so as to build resilience against the morbus and limit the proliferation of diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Robert K Chigangaidze
- School of Social Work, Midlands State University Faculty of Social Sciences, Harare, Zimbabwe
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Stavridou A, Kapsali E, Panagouli E, Thirios A, Polychronis K, Bacopoulou F, Psaltopoulou T, Tsolia M, Sergentanis TN, Tsitsika A. Obesity in Children and Adolescents during COVID-19 Pandemic. CHILDREN-BASEL 2021; 8:children8020135. [PMID: 33673078 PMCID: PMC7918914 DOI: 10.3390/children8020135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 120] [Impact Index Per Article: 40.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2020] [Revised: 02/02/2021] [Accepted: 02/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has led to special circumstances and changes to everyday life due to the worldwide measures that were imposed such as lockdowns. This review aims to evaluate obesity in children, adolescents and young adults during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: A literature search was conducted to evaluate pertinent studies up to 10 November 2020. Results: A total of 15 articles were eligible; 9 identified 17,028,111 children, adolescents and young adults from 5–25 years old, 5 pertained to studies with an age admixture (n = 20,521) and one study included parents with children 5–18 years old (n = 584). During the COVID-19 era, children, adolescents and young adults gained weight. Changes in dietary behaviors, increased food intake and unhealthy food choices including potatoes, meat and sugary drinks were noted during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Food insecurity associated with financial reasons represents another concern. Moreover, as the restrictions imposed reduced movements out of the house, physical activity was limited, representing another risk factor for weight gain. Conclusions: COVID-19 restrictions disrupted the everyday routine of children, adolescents and young adults and elicited changes in their eating behaviors and physical activity. To protect them, health care providers should highlight the risk of obesity and provide prevention strategies, ensuring also parental participation. Worldwide policies, guidelines and precautionary measures should ideally be established.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Androniki Stavridou
- 2nd Department of Pediatrics, “P. & A. Kyriakou” Children’s Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 115 27 Athens, Greece; (A.S.); (E.K.); (E.P.); (A.T.); (K.P.); (T.P.); (M.T.); (T.N.S.)
| | - Evangelia Kapsali
- 2nd Department of Pediatrics, “P. & A. Kyriakou” Children’s Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 115 27 Athens, Greece; (A.S.); (E.K.); (E.P.); (A.T.); (K.P.); (T.P.); (M.T.); (T.N.S.)
| | - Eleni Panagouli
- 2nd Department of Pediatrics, “P. & A. Kyriakou” Children’s Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 115 27 Athens, Greece; (A.S.); (E.K.); (E.P.); (A.T.); (K.P.); (T.P.); (M.T.); (T.N.S.)
| | - Athanasios Thirios
- 2nd Department of Pediatrics, “P. & A. Kyriakou” Children’s Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 115 27 Athens, Greece; (A.S.); (E.K.); (E.P.); (A.T.); (K.P.); (T.P.); (M.T.); (T.N.S.)
| | - Konstantinos Polychronis
- 2nd Department of Pediatrics, “P. & A. Kyriakou” Children’s Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 115 27 Athens, Greece; (A.S.); (E.K.); (E.P.); (A.T.); (K.P.); (T.P.); (M.T.); (T.N.S.)
| | - Flora Bacopoulou
- Center for Adolescent Medicine and UNESCO Chair Adolescent Health Care, First Department of Pediatrics, “Agia Sophia” Children’s Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 115 27 Athens, Greece;
| | - Theodora Psaltopoulou
- 2nd Department of Pediatrics, “P. & A. Kyriakou” Children’s Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 115 27 Athens, Greece; (A.S.); (E.K.); (E.P.); (A.T.); (K.P.); (T.P.); (M.T.); (T.N.S.)
- Department of Clinical Therapeutics, “Alexandra” Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian, University of Athens, 115 28 Athens, Greece
| | - Maria Tsolia
- 2nd Department of Pediatrics, “P. & A. Kyriakou” Children’s Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 115 27 Athens, Greece; (A.S.); (E.K.); (E.P.); (A.T.); (K.P.); (T.P.); (M.T.); (T.N.S.)
| | - Theodoros N. Sergentanis
- 2nd Department of Pediatrics, “P. & A. Kyriakou” Children’s Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 115 27 Athens, Greece; (A.S.); (E.K.); (E.P.); (A.T.); (K.P.); (T.P.); (M.T.); (T.N.S.)
- Department of Clinical Therapeutics, “Alexandra” Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian, University of Athens, 115 28 Athens, Greece
| | - Artemis Tsitsika
- 2nd Department of Pediatrics, “P. & A. Kyriakou” Children’s Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 115 27 Athens, Greece; (A.S.); (E.K.); (E.P.); (A.T.); (K.P.); (T.P.); (M.T.); (T.N.S.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel./Fax: +30-2107710824
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Mărginean CO, Meliţ LE, Săsăran MO. Pediatric Obesity-A Potential Risk Factor for Systemic Inflammatory Syndrome Associated to COVID-19, a Case Report. Front Pediatr 2021; 9:681626. [PMID: 34123977 PMCID: PMC8192702 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2021.681626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2021] [Accepted: 04/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The well-documented systemic inflammation associated to pediatric obesity might act as an augmenting factor for other inflammatory conditions, such as pediatric inflammatory multisystem syndrome (PIMS) associated to COVID-19. We report the case of 9-year-old boy admitted in our clinic for fever, anorexia, and fatigability. The clinical exam revealed influenced general status, palpebral edema, non-exudative conjunctivitis, and abdominal tenderness. The patient weighed 45 kg. The laboratory tests at the time of admission pointed out anemia, lymphopenia; elevated inflammatory biomarkers, NT-proBNP, D-dimers, and troponin; high liver enzymes and lactate dehydrogenase levels, as well as hypoalbuminemia. The patient tested positive for both RT-PCR and serology for SARS-CoV-2 infection. We initiated intravenous immunoglobulin and methylprednisolone, associated with empirical antibiotic, anticoagulation therapy, and symptomatic treatment. The patient was discharged on the 7th day of admission with the recommendation to continue enoxaparin and methylprednisolone at home tapering the dose for the next week. The subclinical inflammatory status associated to obesity might serve as an unfortunate trigger factor for the development of COVID-19 severe forms in children. Therefore, clinicians should be aware that children with obesity and COVID-19 represent a peculiar group that should be closely monitored and thoroughly assessed in order to preempt life-threatening complications, such as PIMS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Oana Mărginean
- Department of Pediatrics I, George Emil Palade University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Science, and Technology of Târgu Mureş, Târgu Mureş, Romania
| | - Lorena Elena Meliţ
- Department of Pediatrics I, George Emil Palade University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Science, and Technology of Târgu Mureş, Târgu Mureş, Romania
| | - Maria Oana Săsăran
- Department of Pediatrics III, George Emil Palade University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Science, and Technology of Târgu Mureş, Târgu Mureş, Romania
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Cuschieri S, Grech S. COVID-19: a one-way ticket to a global childhood obesity crisis? J Diabetes Metab Disord 2020; 19:2027-2030. [PMID: 33173756 PMCID: PMC7644278 DOI: 10.1007/s40200-020-00682-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2020] [Accepted: 10/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Obesity is a global epidemic based on three major pillars of (i) genetic (ii) behavioural and (iii) environmental determinants. The latter two pillars have been challenged during the course of the COVID-19 pandemic across all population age groups including children. The closure of schools resulted in decreased organised physical activity, increase in sedentary lifestyle and screen time with the possibility of stress-induced indulgence in high calorie dense and sugary foods, resulting in higher susceptibility to weight gain. The uncertainty faced by many Northern Hemisphere governments as the new scholastic year looms closer whether to open schools again or not further enhances the stress on the children and their family. Re-opening of schools is beneficial for children's mental and physical health, and general wellbeing including the 'combating' of the childhood obesity epidemic. The family unit has also been challenged during this pandemic especially if the parent/s suffered redundancy. There have been attempts at seeing a silver lining as some families have embraced lockdowns as a means to strengthen their family bonds, increase homemade meals apart from the various virtual opportunities that were streamed on social media to encourage children to perform physical activity at home or in safe environments. However, curbing the viral spread while protecting population health will remain top priority until an effective COVID-19 vaccine is available. It is imperative to address other co-existing problems such as childhood obesity, which if uncontrolled may have a long-term profound health and economic consequence of higher eminence than the actual COVID-19 infection. The prevention and management of childhood obesity should be set as a priority at an individual, community and population level during this pandemic.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Cuschieri
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, University of Malta, RM 425, Biomedical Building, Msida, MSD2090 Malta
| | - Stephan Grech
- Department of Trauma and Orthopaedics, Mater Dei Hospital, Msida, Malta
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Alhusseini N, Alqahtani A. COVID-19 pandemic's impact on eating habits in Saudi Arabia. J Public Health Res 2020; 9:1868. [PMID: 33024727 PMCID: PMC7512943 DOI: 10.4081/jphr.2020.1868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2020] [Accepted: 09/02/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: COVID-19 virus has been reported as a pandemic in March 2020 by the WHO. Having a balanced and healthy diet routine can help boost the immune system, which is essential in fighting viruses. Public Health officials enforced lockdown for residents resulting in dietary habits change to combat sudden changes. Design and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted through an online survey to describe the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the eating habits, quality and quantity of food intake among adults in Saudi Arabia. SPSS version 24 was used to analyze the data. Comparison between general dietary habits before and during COVID-19 for ordinal variables was performed by Wilcoxon Signed Rank test, while McNemar test was performed for nominal variables. The paired samples t-test was used to compare the total scores for food quality and quantity before and during COVID-19 periods. Results: 2706 adults residing in Riyadh completed the survey. The majority (85.6%) of the respondents reported eating homecooked meals on a daily basis during COVID-19 as compared to 35.6% before (p<0.001). The mean score for the quality of food intake was slightly higher (p=0.002) before the COVID-19 period (16.46±2.84) as compared to the during period (16.39±2.79). The quantity of food mean score was higher (p<0.001) during the COVID-19 period (15.70±2.66) as compared to the before period (14.62±2.71). Conclusion: Dietary habits have changed significantly during the COVID-19 pandemic among Riyadh residents. Although some good habits increased, the quality and the quantity of the food was compromised. Public Health officials must focus on increased awareness on healthy eating during pandemics to avoid negative consequences. Future research is recommended to better understand the change in dietary habits during pandemics using a detailed food frequency questionnaire.
Collapse
|